The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) have joined forces on a three-month all-island inspection campaign targeting silica dust exposure in the construction sector, running from 1 June to 31 August 2026.

Industry publication Agg-Net reported that coordinated inspections will be carried out across both jurisdictions, focusing on high-risk construction activities including cutting, grinding, drilling, and demolition, all of which are known to generate hazardous levels of respirable crystalline silica dust if not properly controlled.

The campaign comes against a backdrop of significant occupational health concern. HSENI figures indicate that an estimated 20 people die each year in Northern Ireland alone from lung cancer linked to silica dust exposure. Exposure can also cause silicosis, an incurable lung disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with symptoms often developing long after initial exposure.

Julian Richmond, principal inspector with HSENI, said: "Silica dust remains a significant health hazard within the construction industry. By working collaboratively with the HSA, we are reinforcing the importance of prevention, control and ongoing vigilance in managing dust exposure risks."

Richmond added that employers must take responsibility for implementing appropriate controls, providing equipment and training, and ensuring workers are protected at all times.

Joan Flynn, senior inspector with the HSA, said: "Through coordinated inspections over the summer period, we aim to raise awareness around elimination or substitution and ensure that effective control measures are consistently in place to protect workers across the island."

Inspectors will assess whether controls including water suppression systems, on-tool dust extraction, respiratory protective equipment, and health surveillance programmes are in place across construction sites.

View the complete report for in-depth findings and guidance on compliance requirements.